Illustration student’s work on show in Seven Stories exhibition
Artwork by illustration degree student Natalie Gaines is being displayed in an exhibition at Seven Stories, the National Centre for Children’s Books.
The t-shirt, pictured on display above top right, inspired by The Wind in the Willows by The Northern School of Art BA (Hons) Illustration for Commercial Application degree student, was chosen following a call-out by Seven Stories for designs based on children’s literature to coincide with its exhibition celebrating the work of Betty Larom and her husband Neville Main.
Famous for their comic art, nostalgic illustrations, Betty Larom and Neville Main’s work was featured in British fashion designer Molly Goddard’s AW22 Collection which was worn by Harry Styles in the ‘Boyfriends’ music video in June 2022.
Aimee Philipson, Director at Seven Stories, explained: “We invited students in to Seven Stories to see the exhibition and then to use their course knowledge and creativity to design their own literature-based apparel. We couldn’t be happier with the work that was submitted and it’s been great to see the students’ processes, skills and inspirations come to fruition in their final designs.”
Natalie said: “I’m very happy to be included in the exhibition. It was an interesting brief, and it was challenging to try and adapt my narrative illustration style to fit a more fashion-based outcome. The staff at Seven Stories were lovely to work with!”
Pat Chapman, Vice Principal (External Relations & Employability) at The Northern School of Art, said: “We’re delighted to work with Seven Stories as part of this wonderful exciting exhibition which provided an opportunity for our student creatives to exhibit their interpretation of Betty Larom’s work. We would encourage everyone to visit and see the work of an established artist as well as our exciting designers and illustrators of the future.”
Natalie’s work is featured alongside a dress by Sophie Clayton inspired by the White Rabbit in Alice in Wonderland, a range of shoes by Libby Bannister inspired by the Harry Potter books, a party dress by Grace Bradael inspired by Ursula from The Little Mermaid and outfits by Paige Trainer Murray inspired by each character in the Winnie the Pooh books.
Seven Stories is located at 30 Lime Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 2PQ. Entry is free and visitors can see the exhibition on Level 6 between 10am and 5pm every day except Wednesdays until the end of January 2023.
Follow Natalie Gains and see more of her work on her Instagram at @natsartandstuff
